1

Data Analyst Jobs in Benton, IL (NOW HIRING)

Data Analyst information

See Benton, IL salary details

$31K

$75.4K

$124.1K

How much do data analyst jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for data analyst in Benton, IL is $75,382.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $57,000.00 and $88,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a data analyst do?

A Data Analyst is responsible for collecting, processing, and analyzing data to help organizations make informed business decisions. They use statistical tools and software to interpret data sets, identify trends, and create visual reports. Data Analysts often collaborate with other departments to provide actionable insights and support strategic planning. Their work helps organizations optimize operations, track performance, and solve business problems using data-driven approaches.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a data analyst, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Data Analyst, you need strong analytical skills, proficiency in statistics, and a relevant degree such as in mathematics, statistics, or computer science. Familiarity with data analysis tools like SQL, Excel, Python or R, and experience with visualization platforms such as Tableau or Power BI are typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help analysts interpret data insights and present findings clearly to stakeholders. These skills are crucial for transforming raw data into actionable business insights that drive informed decision-making.

What are some common challenges data analysts face when working with large datasets, and how are they typically addressed?

Data Analysts often encounter challenges such as data quality issues, missing or inconsistent values, and slow processing times when handling large datasets. These challenges are typically addressed by implementing data cleaning routines, using advanced data management tools, and leveraging programming languages like Python or R for efficient data manipulation. Collaboration with database administrators and IT teams is also common to ensure data integrity and optimize data storage solutions. Staying updated with best practices in data wrangling and visualization helps Data Analysts deliver accurate and actionable insights.

What is the difference between Data Analyst vs Data Scientist?

AspectData AnalystData Scientist
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in statistics, mathematics, or related field; often certifications in data analysis toolsBachelor's or master's in computer science, statistics, or related; often advanced certifications or degrees
Work EnvironmentBusiness settings, focusing on data reporting and visualizationResearch and development environments, focusing on predictive modeling and complex algorithms
Employer & Industry UsageRetail, finance, healthcare, and marketing companiesTech firms, research institutions, and large enterprises

While both roles analyze data, Data Analysts primarily focus on interpreting existing data to generate reports and insights, whereas Data Scientists develop predictive models and advanced algorithms to forecast trends and solve complex problems.

Do data analysts get paid well?

Data analysts typically earn competitive salaries that vary by experience, location, and industry. Entry-level positions may start lower, but with skills in tools like Excel, SQL, and data visualization, salaries tend to increase with expertise and certifications. Overall, data analysis is considered a well-paying field with growth potential.

Is it hard to get a data analyst job?

Securing a data analyst position can be competitive, as it often requires strong skills in data manipulation, statistical analysis, and proficiency with tools like Excel, SQL, or Python. Candidates with relevant education, certifications, and experience tend to have better chances, but persistence and continuous skill development are important.

What work does a data analyst do?

A data analyst collects, processes, and analyzes large datasets to identify trends, patterns, and insights that support business decision-making. They use tools like Excel, SQL, and data visualization software to interpret data and communicate findings to stakeholders. Strong analytical skills and attention to detail are essential for this role.

What cities near Benton, IL are hiring for Data Analyst jobs?

Cities near Benton, IL with the most Data Analyst job openings:

Infographic showing various Data Analyst job openings in Benton, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $75,382 per year, or $36.2 per hour.

Medical Records Administrator (Assistant Chief (ACHIM))

SD Department of Veterans Affairs

Marion, IL • On-site

$74K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

The Marion VAMC is recruiting for a Medical Records Administrator, Assistant Chief Health Information Management.Qualifications:Applicants pending the completion of educational or certification/licensure requirements may be referred and tentatively selected but may not be hired until all requirements are met.
Basic Requirements:
  • United States Citizenship: Non-citizens may only be appointed when it is not possible to recruit qualified citizens in accordance with VA Policy.
  • Experience. Three years of creditable experience in the field of medical records that included the preparation, maintenance, and management of [health] records and health information systems demonstrating a knowledge of medical terminology, medical records procedures, medical coding, or medical, administrative, and legal requirements of health care delivery systems. OR
  • Education. Successful completion of a bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited college or university recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, with a major field of study in health information management, or a related degree with a minimum of 24 semester hours in health information management or health information technology. OR
  • Experience/Education Combination. Equivalent combinations of [creditable] experience and education that equals 100 percent may be used to meet basic requirements. [For example, two years above high school from an accredited college or university, with 12 semester hours in health information technology/health information management, plus one year and six months of creditable experience that included the preparation, maintenance, and management of health records and health information systems meets an equivalent combination.
  • Certification. Persons hired or reassigned to MRA positions in the GS-0669 series in VHA must meet one of the following:
    • Coding Certification through AHIMA or AAPC OR,
    • HIM Certification through AHIMA OR,
    • Health Data Analyst Certification through AHIMA
Note: HIMs Certification is required for all positions above the full performance level.
Specialized Experience: In addition to the basic requirements, applicants must meet the following criteria to qualify at the GS-11 grade level. Experience includes but not limited to: At least 1 year of creditable experience equivalent to the next lower grade level (GS-09) that demonstrates the Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities described at that level Certification: As this is considered the full performance level for MRA positions(MRA/HIM Specialist). MRAs work independently in day-to-day assignments. They perform data mining; complex data analysis; and interpret and transform data into accurate, consistent, and timely information in support of the business and operational needs of the HIM department and the organization. They present findings and recommendations to the Chief of HIM (CHIM) and facility leadership. MRAs perform workflow analyses, recommend process improvements, identify and implement best practices, and implement changes as needed to improve the productivity and quality controls of the HIM department. In addition to the above mentioned specialized experience, your resume should demonstrate the GS-9 Knowledge Skills and Ability (KSAs) below:
  • Knowledge of medical and legal requirements related to health information management and health records.
  • Ability to provide technical advice and guidance on health information[management practices.
  • Skill in extracting data from various sources and analyzing health information to create reports.
  • Skill in researching,] interpreting, and [applying] health information management guidelines.
  • Knowledge of performance and process improvement techniques to develop new or improved solutions in health information management.

Grade Determinations:
Medical Records Administrator Assistant (Chief (CHIM), GS-11. This assignment is considered above the full performance level.
(a) Experience. One year of creditable experience equivalent to the next lower grade level that demonstrates all the KSAs described at that level. OR
(b) Education. Education equivalent to three full years of progressively higher-level graduate education or a Ph.D., or equivalent doctoral degree, from an accredited university or college in the field of health information. AND
(c) Certification. Employees at this level must have a HIM Certification.
(d) Demonstrated Knowledges, Skills, and Abilities
  • Skill in performance and process improvement techniques to develop and implement new or improved solutions in health information management.
  • Ability to advise management and staff at various levels regarding health record documentation requirements and health information management practices based on current industry standards, policies, statutes, laws, and regulations.
  • Ability to plan, justify, develop, evaluate, assess, monitor, and advise on current health information management processes and recommend changes in policies or procedures.
  • Ability to determine and evaluate compliance with legal, ethical, and regulatory guidelines and accrediting bodies as they apply to health information management.
  • Ability to plan, justify, develop, evaluate, assess, monitor and/or advise on current HIM processes and recommend changes in policies or procedures.
  • Ability to successfully apply principles and techniques of sound resource management (i.e., staffing, space, contracts, equipment).
  • Ability to provide the full range of supervisory duties, to include assignment of work, completing performance evaluations, selection of staff, and recommendation for awards, advancements, and disciplinary actions, when appropriate.

Reference: For more information on this qualification standard, please visit https://www.va.gov/ohrm/QualificationStandards/.
The full performance level of this vacancy is GS-11. The actual grade at which an applicant may be selected for this vacancy is in the range of GS-11.
Physical Requirements: The work is primarily sedentary. Light lifting and carrying of files/folders may be required. Requires walking, sitting, standing for long periods of time.Education:IMPORTANT: A transcript must be submitted with your application if you are basing all or part of your qualifications on education.
Note: Only education or degrees recognized by the U.S. Department of Education from accredited colleges, universities, schools, or institutions may be used to qualify for Federal employment. You can verify your education here: http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/. If you are using foreign education to meet qualification requirements, you must send a Certificate of Foreign Equivalency with your transcript in order to receive credit for that education. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.Employment Type: OTHER